If you’re a coffee enthusiast, you’ve probably heard the age-old saying that the grinder is more important than the espresso machine. But just how cheap can you go with the machine and still get a decent cup of espresso? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of budget espresso machines, examining five different options, all priced under £100, and the results they deliver with a good grinder.
The Swan Retro – £90
The Swan Retro is the first machine on our list, priced at £90. It’s made with mostly plastic materials and has a few quirks. While it does have a temperature gauge, it lacks stability in maintaining a consistent temperature. Additionally, it comes with a pressurized portafilter, which may not produce the best-tasting coffee, especially with finely ground coffee. Overall, the shots from the Swan Retro were decent but lacked the richness and depth of flavor found in good espresso.
The DeLonghi – £99.99
The DeLonghi is the most expensive machine on our list, just barely scraping in under £100 at £99.99. Unlike the Swan Retro, it comes with a proper basket, allowing you to use finely ground coffee for a potentially better espresso. While the DeLonghi lacks additional features and has a few design flaws, it can produce decent espresso if you’re willing to put in the extra effort. With the right grind and extraction time, you can achieve good, albeit not great, espresso with this machine.
The Krups – £90
Priced similarly to the Swan Retro, the Krups shares the same pressurized portafilter design. However, its unique water dispersion from the group head can result in uneven extraction and a less-than-ideal taste. The coffee made with the Krups machine often ends up hollow, empty, and sour. Overall, it didn’t deliver a satisfactory espresso experience.
The AmazonBasics – £65
The AmazonBasics espresso machine aims to capitalize on popular search trends and buyer behavior. However, it falls short in quality compared to its counterparts. With a cheap and flimsy build, it shares the same pressurized portafilter design as the Krups. This can lead to issues with temperature and water dispersion, resulting in subpar espresso. In terms of value for money, the AmazonBasics machine is a disappointment.
The Andrew James – £60
At £60, the Andrew James is the cheapest machine on our list. It comes with pressurized portafilters and lacks extra features. Although it distributes water properly, it requires coarse-ground coffee and fast shots to produce acceptable results. However, if you prefer a more traditional and finely ground espresso experience, this machine will disappoint. Overall, it falls in line with the other budget machines and doesn’t offer exceptional espresso.
In conclusion, among these budget options, the DeLonghi stands out as the best choice for those looking to make espresso without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to note that even with the DeLonghi, the overall espresso experience may be frustrating and inconsistent. To truly enjoy making espresso at home, it’s worth saving up for a higher-quality machine that offers greater precision and control. Investing in a better espresso machine will provide a more enjoyable and satisfying coffee-making journey.
For more information on espresso machines and to explore a wide range of options, visit Marmalade Cafe. Let us help you find the perfect espresso machine to elevate your coffee experience.